PSCS4 Question

[JenniferG]

I saw a question a bit back referring to a slight annoyance in CS4. I too have this problem:

When I File/Place a kit bg into my new document, it is offset just a smidge, so I can see the transparent layer. Anyone know how to fix this. My screen is set to Fit to Screen, so I know that's not the problem.

Any suggestions on how to fix this?

Thanks!

[Kathleen]

I was the one who posted the problem before. I opened a support ticket with Adobe, and unfortunately since I was only evaluating the program via a trial version, they closed the ticket since I was not entitled to the support.

If you have purchased CS4, I'd love for you to open a ticket and see what they say.

If it helps at all, here is the detail of the case I opened (feel free to borrow my screen shot, too):

I often use File > Place to add additional items into a document. I believe the expected functionality of File>Place is that the file should then be centered in the document.

Here is what I have done:
+ Create a 12"x12" document at 200ppi (I have also tried to create a document at 2400x2400 pixels)
+ Use File>Place to add a square 2400x2400 pixel image into the document
+ The added layer is now offset ever so slightly in the new document.
+ Further observation shows that the horizontal reference point is at 1202 (screen shot attached), thus creating an offset from center. I change it to 1200 and sure enough the paper is centered perfectly. I thought maybe changing it once would make it the same next time, but that is not the case.
+ When I used the File>Place command, I was zoomed out (25%), and the entire image was viewable on screen. If I zoom out further, say 8.33%, the offset is 1206.

I am able to duplicate this on two different computers with the following configurations:

Computer #1
+ Windows XP Professional Version 2002 SP2
+ AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 6000+ (3.01GHz)
+ 4GB RAM
+ nVidia GeForce 8600 GT, driver version 6.14.11.5819

Computer #2
+ HP Pavilion dv9843cl Laptop
+ Windows Vista x64 SP1
+ Intel Core Duo processor T8100 (2.1 GHz)
+ 4GB RAM
+ nVidia GeForce 8600M GS with 512MB DDR dedicated graphics memory, ForceWare version 167.43
+ Video BIOS version: 60.83.4f.00.22
Operating System: Windows XP Professional
Browser: Firefox
Video display card / driver version: nVidia GeForce 8600 GT, driver version 6.14.11.5819
Has it ever worked? If so, what's changed? (provide comments in description field): No
Same results with different file?: Yes
Same results with different computer?: Yes
Recent System Hardware or Software change?: No

http://cdn-1-service.phanfare.com/images/external/1466784_1419796_57828417_Full_3/0_0_554e3121a751f1e580200ffdea0f3f2d_1

[Kathleen]

Also note, I posted in the Adobe User-to-User forums (http://www.adobe.com/support/forums/ ) and got no response. However, I note that someone else has also posted the same problem.

If nothing else, I am glad to know it wasn't just me!!!

[JenniferG]

Thanks Kathleen. I submitted the ticket. we'll see what happens.

meanwhile, does anyone know how to find the cookie cutter tool or a tool like it for CS4?

[idtwinmom]

When you drag anything into the new file, especially BG's and Overlays it is very helpful to hold the shift key while dragging and dropping. This centers the item in the new file. I've not noticed your problem, but I consistantly use the shift key so this may help you, if not I would love to know what Adobe has to say, so please post back!

BTW, I'm running the Mac version, but I know the shift works on both.

[idtwinmom]

I think you posted while I was reading: There is no Cookie Cutter, there is a shape tool, but is no where near as extensive. In your Toolbox (the toolbar that goes down the left side, look for the Rectangle Tool (keyboard shortcut = U).

[Lauren]

Yes I dont use file place often so dont really encounter it - and when I tried it didnt happen for me .
File place turns everything into a smart object - I only turn things i realy want into a smart object because it limits somewhat what I can do with it so hence dont use it that often . ( having said that - I do use smart objects a lot but not in this context)

as for the shape tool - you can create a shape out of any selection at all in PS so its actually not limiting -

[Kathleen]

And for creating shapes, the pen tool is awesome. I'm not sure what context you are looking for Jennifer, but here is an example of how I use the pen tool:

- odd shaped frame that I want to put a photo in
- create new layer and use the pen tool to make my shape, just click click click at the corners, and complete the circuit
- use my new shape as a clipping mask for my photo

[JenniferG]

So what is the easiest way to cut something in CS4? make a shape and select it, the inverse the selection on the thing you wanna cut?

[Kathleen]

When you drag anything into the new file, especially BG's and Overlays it is very helpful to hold the shift key while dragging and dropping. This centers the item in the new file. I've not noticed your problem, but I consistantly use the shift key so this may help you, if not I would love to know what Adobe has to say, so please post back!

BTW, I'm running the Mac version, but I know the shift works on both.

For whatever reason, I just can't get my mouse around the dragging thing. I think it is because I don't like to have to open a file and then drag it in. I'd rather do it in one motion.

What Jennifer and I are both seeing is using the File > Place command, so shift to center doesn't come in to play (at least I don't think it does).

[Kathleen]

So what is the easiest way to cut something in CS4? make a shape and select it, the inverse the selection on the thing you wanna cut?

A specific example of what you are trying to do might help. For example, are you wanting to cut a strip of paper out of a background paper I might use the rectangular marquee tool to make the selection and then press ctrl+J to duplicate the selection.

If you have a shape of something, say a star, and you want to cut the start out of a background paper, I would ctrl+click the icon of the star in the layers pallette (you should then see marching ants), then select (single click) the layer of what you are wanting to cut. At this point you could either Ctrl+J to duplicate or do an inverse selection and delete the area you don't want.

[JenniferG]

Im the same way, Kathleen. I hate having all those files in my bin. I have tried the drag and place, but it isnt for me

[idtwinmom]

Since I come from PSE I am used to just dragging and dropping - guess I need practice using the Place tool.

I'm still learning to use the pen tool, but I love the clipping mask. But since we are on the subject - When you have a frame and you want to clip a photo, how do you do that? I have traditionally used the Lasso, Inverse, delete. I'm sure there is a better way in PS.

[KrystalW]

Well I just tried it and it happened to me too...so you are not the only ones. :) Oh and I tried to use the shift key to see if it made a difference and it doesn't so still no joy.

I don't use the command myself...I drag from ACDSee or bridge or windows...and then drag onto my document. Yes it means dragging twice. I guess it is just what I am used to. And the shift key works with pc's too. ;)

[happybeingamom]

Since I come from PSE I am used to just dragging and dropping - guess I need practice using the Place tool.

I'm still learning to use the pen tool, but I love the clipping mask. But since we are on the subject - When you have a frame and you want to clip a photo, how do you do that? I have traditionally used the Lasso, Inverse, delete. I'm sure there is a better way in PS.

I make a clipping mask for the pictures that go in a frame.

This is what I do.

I make a new layer under my frame

Then I go to the frame layer and use the magic wand to select the empty part of the frame (sometimes I have to add to the selection because of shadows.

I go to the new layer underneath my frame

Click on the paint bucket tool and fill the selection and I then have my clipping mask.

To put files into my document I use most of the time Av Bros collectors script. It centers everything in the document and I love the fact that the layers have the file name so I know exactly what I am working with.

[idtwinmom]

I will have to try that.

Can you point me to those scripts? I think I've seen them mentioned somewhere else just recently.

[Kathleen]

Since I come from PSE I am used to just dragging and dropping - guess I need practice using the Place tool.

I'm still learning to use the pen tool, but I love the clipping mask. But since we are on the subject - When you have a frame and you want to clip a photo, how do you do that? I have traditionally used the Lasso, Inverse, delete. I'm sure there is a better way in PS.

The two ways I tend to use the most (and this speaks so much to my personality, always wanting to keep my options open):

(1) Create a clipping mask, depending on the shape usually with either using the pen tool, the rectangle tool, or the ellipse tool. This method takes three layers - frame layer on top, photo layer on the bottom, shape layer on the bottom. Clip (alt+ctrl+g when the photo layer is selected to group to the previous layer, or right click and over the layer name in the layers palette and click create clipping mask, or (my favorite) hold the Alt key and hover the mouse over the line between the photo layer and the shape layer until it looks like two interlocking circles and click)

(2) Create a mask to hide the parts of the photo outside of the frame. Use a selection tool, either one of the marquee selection tools, or one of the lasso tools, and while the photo layer is selected click the mask icon (square icon with a circle in the middle at the bottom of the layers palette, next to the fx icon). This will hide everything outside of the selection. Masks don't move with the layer, so you either have to apply the mask or move the mask too if you move the placement of your photo and frame.

Well I just tried it and it happened to me too...so you are not the only ones. :) Oh and I tried to use the shift key to see if it made a difference and it doesn't so still no joy.

I don't use the command myself...I drag from ACDSee or bridge or windows...and then drag onto my document. Yes it means dragging twice. I guess it is just what I am used to. And the shift key works with pc's too. ;)

One of the reasons I like using the Place command is that it gives the layer the name of the file, so if I end up with a page with things from different places, that I have, um, forgotten to make a perfect note about, I can search for the file name and credit all the elements properly.

[Kathleen]

I will have to try that.

Can you point me to those scripts? I think I've seen them mentioned somewhere else just recently.

AV Bros. Collector 1.0 (http://www.avbros.com/english/collector/index.html)

You open all the files you want to place in a single document, and then run the script.

Once you have all the layers in the active document, you can use Close Without Saving (http://morris-photographics.com/photoshop/scripts/close-without-save.html) script from Trevor Morris Photography to close all the inactive layers.

[happybeingamom]

I will have to try that.

Can you point me to those scripts? I think I've seen them mentioned somewhere else just recently.

Here you go, it makes my life so much easier :)

Av Bros Collector Script (http://www.avbros.com/english/collector/index.html)

[happybeingamom]

AV Bros. Collector 1.0 (http://www.avbros.com/english/collector/index.html)

You open all the files you want to place in a single document, and then run the script.

Once you have all the layers in the active document, you can use Close Without Saving (http://morris-photographics.com/photoshop/scripts/close-without-save.html) script from Trevor Morris Photography to close all the inactive layers.

Going to try that I hate closing the documents but with the new tab feature I found an easy way to go about it but this might be better.

[carolyn d]

One of the reasons I like using the Place command is that it gives the layer the name of the file, so if I end up with a page with things from different places, that I have, um, forgotten to make a perfect note about, I can search for the file name and credit all the elements properly.

The best thing about the PLACE command is that it transfers your phoot as a smart object..so if you need to resize photoshop is able to call upon all the pixels for the resize without degradation (which is what happens when you resize jpgs! )

[Kathleen]

First, I have to say we are a lively bunch tonight! It's past my bedtime, and I know my early morning meeting is going to come way too early!!


[QUOTE=kathleen08;592010

The best thing about the PLACE command is that it transfers your phoot as a smart object..so if you need to resize photoshop is able to call upon all the pixels for the resize without degradation (which is what happens when you resize jpgs! )

Carolyn, yes, I like that they are smart objects too!

[JenniferG]

So that's what a smart object is!

Looks like there's no easy way to duplicate the efficiency of the cookie cutter tool from pse to cs4. wonder if there's a plug in.... LOL

going to have to try the AV Bros collector too to see how it is.

(yeah, we're all a bunch of late timers right now....although it's only 1016pm here. I'm waiting for new kits to hit the store...there's a particular kit I've bee DYING for.)

[idtwinmom]

OK, one more question: The Close Without Saving says it's for CS3, do Actions and Scripts from CS3 work in CS4?

[idtwinmom]

AV Bros. Collector 1.0 (http://www.avbros.com/english/collector/index.html)

You open all the files you want to place in a single document, and then run the script.

Once you have all the layers in the active document, you can use Close Without Saving (http://morris-photographics.com/photoshop/scripts/close-without-save.html) script from Trevor Morris Photography to close all the inactive layers.

No matter what I do, I can't get the 'Close Without Saving' Script to download! It says to Right-Click, but that doesn't do anything. Any ideas? I'm still looking for a way to contact the site owner.

[happybeingamom]

No matter what I do, I can't get the 'Close Without Saving' Script to download! It says to Right-Click, but that doesn't do anything. Any ideas? I'm still looking for a way to contact the site owner.

I had the same problem.

[idtwinmom]

Well, I have submitted an email. Will post when I get a response!

[Kathleen]

If you click on the link (Close Inactive Without Saving) - just click, not right click - and for me it pulls up a new window with the script (which is just a text file). Then in your browser, File > Save As and give it a name, like ... Close ALL Without Saving 1-0-1.jsx

[idtwinmom]

Trevor emailed me a zipped file with all the Close Scripts to me! How nice!

[JenniferG]

here's what they said to do...haven't tried any of them yet...

Hello Jennifer,

Thank you for contacting Adobe® Web Support for assistance with Adobe
Photoshop® CS4.

I understand that when you place an item in your document it is not
perfectly centered.

When I tried to re-create your workflow, I realized the dimensions of
the documents you referenced end up being the same size. Mine still
centered correctly when I went to File>Place though.

I tried your workflow with a solid white background 12x12 inch image at
200 DPI, and a solid black background 1200x1200 pixel image at 200 DPI
(Half size image). When I placed the smaller image into the larger
image, it was centered correctly.
(The black and white backgrounds are just for a high-contrast test to
make sure I can see it too, rather than relying only on the dimensions
displays.)

The way you expect the process to work is correct, so we need to find
out what may be causing the issue for you.

Try these steps and write down the results of each step. If they do not
help resolve the issue, update the case with those notes.

1. Double-check the dimensions of your images to make sure they are
square and have the same resolution, etc.

2. For a test, create two documents using the dimensions I used just to
verify that the process works as you expect it to. (I was zoomed at
16.7% on the large image by default.)

3. Go to View>Pixel aspect ratio and make sure it is set to “Square”,
and not something else.

4. Try re-creating your preferences for Photoshop by following step
three of the document below:

Troubleshoot system errors and freezes in Photoshop CS4 (Windows Vista)
http://www.adobe.com/go/kb404897

5. What happens if you place your image at 100% zoom?

6. Does the offset change as you zoom in or out, or does it only change
based on the zoom level the image is at when you actually place the
file?

7. Have you ever been able to place an image that is automatically
centered correctly before?

[Kathleen]

Thanks for posting the response! Unfortunately my trial has expired, and I just couldn't justify the upgrade.

I can say that on their responses:

1. I double and triple checked the dimensions of my images and they were spot on square

2. I didn't create brand new images.

3. Didn't check the Pixel aspect ratio, but will note it for the future.

4. Didn't try recreating my preferences (with a new installation, you wouldn't think that would do anything).

5 and 6. I tried Place at many different zoom levels, and the offset did change, but never did it Place correctly.

7. Never was able to get it automatically centered in CS4, but every time in CS3.

I am so curious to see what comes of this!!!

[JenniferG]

I don't know Kathleen. Doesn't look like Adobe will have a solution if their file/place works fine and they are perplexed that some are having problems with theirs...brand new out the box (or off the download). I haven't tried any of the suggestions, but have checked some of the things they were suggesting may be wrong. And I agree with you, New installations shouldn't need resetting of preferences. And the pixels are ok...everything's just offset. But sometimes after I've fixed the offset, the rest of the backgrounds that I place are set perfectly. Sometimes not. Don't know why. I just use av bros collector now and they place perfectly that way... I just have to verify that they are all smart objects when I do. It's all good. I gave my sister my CS3 version and she doesn't have the offset problem with place.

[lbjiowa]

Did anyone answer your 'cookie cutter tool' question?

If not, in PSCS (any version) it's called the Custom Shape tool ... press U on the keyboard. MANY MANY more options with regard to this tool in PSCS than in Elements ... you can create a shape layer (same as cookie cutter...a resizable, vector image with a path attached) OR a PATH (THE BEST PART!) or a filled shape (non-vector) layer.